The children's classic "The Polar Express" has become the "center of the holiday tradition" for the family of Candace Dold, entertainment reporter for WBFF/Fox 45. "My mother read the book to me every Christmas Eve," she said. "It was more than just a time to gaze at impressive illustrations while listening to the enchanting tone in my mother's voice. These moments became an important bonding experience." Now a mother herself, "I want to pass the tradition on to my daughter." Last year, she gave the book to daughter Gianna, now 2. This year, it will be a sleigh bell similar to the one in the book: "I want to make sure that the bell always makes a beautiful sound for her."

The children's classic "The Polar Express" has become the "center of the holiday tradition" for the family of Candace Dold, entertainment reporter for WBFF/Fox 45. "My mother read the book to me every Christmas Eve," she said. "It was more than just a time to gaze at impressive illustrations while listening to the enchanting tone in my mother's voice. These moments became an important bonding experience." Now a mother herself, "I want to pass the tradition on to my daughter." Last year, she gave the book to daughter Gianna, now 2. This year, it will be a sleigh bell similar to the one in the book: "I want to make sure that the bell always makes a beautiful sound for her." (Algerina Perna, Baltimore Sun photo)

Center Stage's upcoming production of "Marley," written by the company's artistic director, Kwame Kwei-Armah (pictured), has received a $65,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Center Stage's upcoming production of "Marley," written by the company's artistic director, Kwame Kwei-Armah (pictured), has received a $65,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. (Kim Hairston, Baltimore Sun)

Setting aside the baggage of frantic scheduling and manic shopping, the holidays still provide an opportunity to stop, to celebrate with our closest relations and friends, and to give. This year, the Sun Magazine asked several prominent Marylanders to pause -- for a phone call or an email -- and reveal what they planned to bestow upon those dearest to them. The answers, as you'll see, range from sensual treatments to sentimental treasures. -- John-John Williams IV Baltimore Sun classical music and theater critic Tim Smith contributed to this article.